Romberg's sign

Romberg's sign is a neurological test used in an neurological examination to identify issues with the proprioception, the body's ability to sense its location, movements, and actions. It is named after the German physician Moritz Heinrich Romberg (1795–1873) who described it.

Procedure

The test is performed by asking the patient to stand upright with feet together and eyes closed. If the patient begins to sway or falls, this is interpreted as a positive Romberg's sign. The test is based on the principle that balance is maintained through a combination of visual input, vestibular input, and proprioceptive input. If the patient is unable to maintain balance when the visual input is removed (by closing the eyes), this suggests a problem with either the vestibular or proprioceptive input.

Interpretation

A positive Romberg's sign suggests a loss of proprioception. This can be due to a variety of conditions, including Multiple sclerosis, Tabes dorsalis, Vitamin B12 deficiency, and Friedreich's ataxia. It is also commonly seen in patients with alcoholism due to the neurotoxic effects of alcohol on the nerves.

Limitations

The Romberg's sign is not a definitive test and should be used in conjunction with other neurological tests. It is also not suitable for patients who have difficulty standing or are at risk of falling.

See also

• Neurological examination
• Proprioception
• Moritz Heinrich Romberg